Normative conflicts in a dynamic logic of norms and codes

In this paper we introduce two conflict tolerant and dynamic deontic systems DNC and DNC+ in which normative conflicts are analysed as conflicts between normative codes containing norms that prescribe the realisation of incompatible states of affairs. The systems present two crucial traits: first, norms and codes are explicitly represented in it; second, the connections between norms and codes and the way in which codes are updated by introducing new norms are properly defined. We will show how the systems can be used to fruitfully analyse paradigmatic cases of civil conflicts. Specifically, DNC and DNC+ will allow us to model the genesis of a conflict by keeping track of which agent triggered it and, relatedly, to capture the basic distinction between civil disobedience and conscientious objection.